GlobalSpa
22-Jun-2021
Our sense of smell has been associated with our wellbeing for many decades now – from using aromas to mask bad odours, to creating a sense of ambiance and contentedness to enhance how we feel. Sheetal Desai, founder of wiSDom Fragrances, explains the different categories essential oils can divided and which scent helps us to relive stress and relax.
The olfactory cortex which is also part of our limbic system is located in the temporal lobe of the brain, which processes all kinds of sensory input thereby impacting our emotional responses and memories; that is why the sense of smell can be so evocative, often bringing back memories and emotions. Based on this theory, essentials oils which are aromatic by nature work on our mental wellbeing by altering our moods from evoking feelings of calmness to alertness.
Essential oils also are known to impact our physical ailments, such as pains, stomach upset etc.
During these times all of us have gone through a major change which has caused a lot of stress. The following essential oils can help in not only calming us down but also help relieve stress and relax us emotionally.
Essential oils can be broken into different categories based on their odour profile.
CITRUS
Bergamot is beneficial in relieving stress and anxiety. It helps boost the feeling of self-esteem. It helps in an uplifting and refreshing mood. It helps relieve emotions like anger, frustration, and rage.
Grapefruit increases mental focus while reducing stress and makes you feel energised.
Studies show that Litsea Cubeba can help to control the nervous system. It not only helps to boost the mood but also induces relaxation and ease the system of anxiety and depression.
Lemongrass acts as a stress reducer. It helps in reducing anxiety and irritability and relieves headaches. It also helps in relaxation and refreshes the mood. No wonder we find it in SPAs everywhere.
AROMATIC HERBS
Lavender & Chamomile aids to relief stress, anxiety, sadness, agitation. They have calming and soothing effects.
Rosemary has anti fatigue qualities. Its helps in relieving stress and anxiety. It increases circulation and acts as mood elevator. Very helpful in relaxing.
Peppermint is a very important oil for mood enhancing, for pain relief, for stomach upset. Peppermint is a pick me up and the aroma is so powerful that it will instantly distract your mind from any negative thoughts. It also activates your mind and boosts focus.
Eucalyptus is very calming and herbal and soothes your senses. A great oil to have while relaxing, great for massages as it adds moisturizing properties.
FLORALS
Ylang ylang oil is used as an anti-depressant, it promotes healthy blood pressure levels, it is Nervine & Sedative to soothe tension and to bring a sense of calm.
Orange Blossom helps fight against anxiety, stress, and shock. It has relaxing and calming effect on the mind and body. Its works against depression and increase blood circulation
WOODS
Vetiver & Patchouli helps in relieving stress and fatigue. Also improves and maintains good nerve health and acts as Anti-depressant.
RESINS
Vanilla helps to enhance mood as it has hydroxybenzaldehyde that helps to uplift the mood and acts as an antidepressant. It also has a calming, soothing and relaxing effect.
WAYS TO INTRODUCE AROMATHERAPY AT HOME
You can introduce Aromatherapy in different format in your home. Here are some ideas-
Overall Essential oils play a very essential role in our wellbeing through our sense of smell. Today aromatherapy has found its way both to personal care and home care ready products.
